Acorn The Caterpillar Is Growing At The Community Center

HARWICH - Acorn the Caterpillar is sprouting at the community center.

For the second year, a paint-a-rock program is underway at the facility, according to Community Center Director Carolyn Carey. Last year’s initial event creating Pebbles the Snake was so successful in bringing the community together that Carey now has another rock-based creature growing in the garden outside the community center.

Pebbles drew people of all ages to the community center to add a painted rock, she said. About 200 rocks were added to Pebble, though the project came to an end after someone stole Pebble’s head.

This year Acorn the Caterpillar will be awaiting additions from the community. Interest is already high. Carey said on the first day last week 20 people came into the center to paint a rock to add to the caterpillar. Rocks are located in a small area in the lobby along with paint and brushes. Once the rocks are painted they remain inside for a day while the paint dries, then they are sprayed with a sealant and placed outside so people can watch Acorn grow.

“We love doing projects like this because it’s a great way for people to express themselves through design, color and diversity,” Carey said. “It’s amazing to watch all of the different age groups participate.”

As for Acorn the Caterpillar, Carey said, “From tiny acorns mighty oaks grow on Oak Street (the community center is at 100 Oak Street). We take kids and work with them from tiny acorns and stay with them while they grow to seniors in the community, becoming our mighty oaks.”

Acorn was scheduled to be placed in the garden on Friday, Carey said.

“It will be interesting to see how our little acorn will grow compared to Pebbles. It’s just fun to watch it grow and be a part of it growing,” said Carey